Now that summer is here, try incorporating our pool into your workout routine.  Primer has a list of 5 reasons that swimming is awesome, and I have to agree!

1. It’s fun! As the author points out, “humans are not aquatic by nature and so, just being in a pool is a bit of a strange, neat, and special feeling (dramatizations of Aquaman notwithstanding).”

2. It’s cool. No matter how tired you get (and you will get tired), you won’t be hot and drenched in sweat because you’re in the water! It’s a refreshing workout, to be sure.

3. It’s peaceful. How often do we unplug? For most of us, not very often. I know I end up listening to music all day at work, in my car, and then the tv is usually on when I get home. Swimming is a break from all the external stimuli we are constantly bombarded with.

4. It’s easy (on your body). Unlike every other exercise, swimming puts no stress on your body. You won’t get shin splints, sore knees, etc. The water supports your weight, so all your body has to do is exercise. As long as you don’t drown or swallow a bunch of water, you’re good!

5. It’s really good for you. Swimming gives you a cardio and weight lifting workout, works your entire body, and lengthens your muscles instead of compressing them. It’s basically the perfect exercise!

Even if you already have a sport or workout routine that you love (I’m not giving up running any time soon, shin splints and all), swimming is a great cross training activity to incorporate into your weekly exercise rotation.

photo by evoo73